The Education First Youth (EFY Foyer) works to break the cycle of youth homelessness by supporting young people aged 16 to 24 years to build a secure, independent and sustainable future.

By providing supported housing, dedicated coaching, and access to education, training and employment pathways, EFY Foyers help young people develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to thrive.

EFY Foyers are more than just housing. They are integrated learning environments that place education, personal development and aspiration at the centre of a young person’s journey. Through mentoring and coaching grounded in an Advantaged Thinking approach, we invest in each young person’s strengths, goals and potential.

Marymead CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn (MCCG) operates the first Edcuation First Youth Foyer in the ACT, located at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) Campus in Phillip. This initiative is a partnership between CIT, Marymead CatholicCare Canberra & Goulburn, Brotherhood of St Laurence and the ACT Government.

The Education First Youth Foyer Experience:

The Woden Education First Youth Foyer provides young people with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to build independent, fulfilling and sustainable lives.

Young people at the Foyer receive:

• Skills, guidance and coaching to pursue their goals and aspirations
• Access to education, training and employment pathways
• Safe, secure and affordable accommodation for up to two years
• 24/7 on-site support from dedicated staff
• The opportunity to develop independence through CIT Certificate I in Developing Independence
• Opportunities to build social connections with peers and engage with the wider community
• Participation in community activities that support personal growth and wellbeing
• Support to transition into stable housing and independent living at the end of their stay

Each young person has their own fully furnished studio apartment, complete with kitchenette, bathroom, and study area. The Foyer also offers shared facilities including a laundry, communal kitchen, and recreation and study spaces. These shared areas are designed to foster both independence and a strong sense of community.

Eligibility

You may be eligible to join the Woden Education First Youth Foyer if you:

• aged 16 to 24 years
• unable to live at home
• are motivated to progress in education and/or training

How to Apply

1. Please complete a readiness form (download readiness form here). You can fill it out by yourself or have someone you trust help you fill it out.
2. Submit the competed form to [email protected]

 A team member will contact you to discuss your application.

 Education First Youth Foyer at Woden

30 Bradley Street Phillip

E: [email protected]

P: 61626100